CHAPTER 5 – AN INEVITABLE BEDAZZLE?

Hellooo everyoneeeeeee

So here I am with the Next Update…as Promised on Saturday.I mean technically yes I made it on Saturday since its still ten minutes to Midnight.

Haha.

So its 8k Words Update Guys.

Will be Eager to know what you all think.

Thank you so much for your amazing feedback uptil now Guys.

Please ignore editing/common repition of words errors etc – since I have not proofread.

And I shall now let you all dive in without – further Delay.

……………..

CHAPTER 5 – AN INEVITABLE BEDAZZLE?

Next Day – 17th Feb, 2019

@Hilton – Nottingham (Arnav’s Suite) – 11:45 AM

Arnav’s POV

Akash grins and states, looking into his phone – “ ok bhai, so yes…. dearest Anjali confirms that Rahul and her, will be here in an hour’s time…and will be with us all day here until dinner…”

I chuckle as I ask – “ is Anjali messaging you with some last minute instructions too Akash??”

Akash chunks his phone aside as he winks at me, taking a last sip off his coffee, and he chuckles – “ well, yes, but not instructions for me because you know since I am the kool brother…..you are the one she is scared off at time, and this one time being the most scary for her…”. I chuckle instantly and we share a warm laugh and Akash asks - “ I am sure that you are asking because you received a couple of disclaimer and reminder texts again from her saying – remember your promise bhai, you’ll be easy on him, no crazy intimidating scrutiny alright bhai, please???right??”

I nod with a grin as I ask – “ did she send you a snapshot off the texts she sent me on whats app??”

Akash chuckles – “ oh yes, she most surely did with a message saying – I sent these reminder texts to bhai , Akash, and since the two of you are chilling together right now, please remind him once more in person from my side please…Rahul is really very nervous about this..”

I grin as I state – “ ask her not to worry about it, I will take it easy on him, as I promised…for sure…I just texted her the same too…you can assure her once more though…”

Akash grins – “ I will surely , ok great then Bhai…ill see you in a bit ok?? will just catch up on a video call with Payal right now, before Anjali and Rahul come in…for after that we’ll just get busy…”

I grin and we High Five each other in our brotherly tradition as we always do, and he states with a relaxed smile – “ you do seem very relaxed and happy this morning Bhai, for real…which makes me very happy…”

Oh.Yes – Akash.

I know what you mean.

I feel very relaxed and Happy not just because I am happy to have this time off with my siblings after ages/but also – because I have been struck by the Fortunate Stroke off Serendipity, indeed. For This Sudden Trip into Nottingham – took a very interesting turn last night. However, it’s a pity I cannot talk to you about it yet, because the one some captivating Cinderella with a Bat – asked me to keep our Encounter a Secret.

I shoot him a relaxed reassuring smile – “ I know what you mean Akash…I do feel very happy and relaxed for real…cmon then go get on your video call with Payal now , tell her I say hello….”

He grins at me and stars to leave saying – “ great…ill see you in a bit bhai…”

“see you in a bit Akash..”.I say to him grinning as I see him walk out my room.

So.

Akash and me had been chilling with each other since 1030, wherein we got together for Breakfast in my room.I do prefer to call in Room Service, most of the times – for Privacy reasons, when I want focus all my attention on just quality family/friends time. I returned from my morning gym and weight sessions around 10 am and got ready for the day. Akash had slept in late because he had anyway declared that he was in a complete holiday mode – which meant his workouts also were on a holiday which is why he didn’t join me in the Gym today. I try not to miss out on my Basic Minimum Everyday Gym time , even when I am on a Holiday/Break. Anyways - We finished breakfast around 11 am, and then were just chatting and catching up post that over a cup of coffee – which made me a happy brother because I truly love catching up with Akash on just One on One too.

Well now that Akash’s gone, leaving me alone for about an hour or so until we all get together again as Anjali &Rahul arrive – I find my thoughts tread their way back to Her – on its own accord.

Her.Who?

I think its pretty obvious and most of you would have guessed it already but I shall state it anyway.

Her Who? - The Captivating Cinderella….Version Bat and Helmet – I met last night.

Khushi.

Ok…so lets just be Honest about this.

She’s pretty much been at the back off my Head – ever since I woke up this morning actually. In fact even in Gym time – I was grinning to myself running the treadmill recalling the tale she told me how she made her friend run for her breath, along with looking back over my thoughts in the head rethinking over how even more Amazingly and Happily Smitten, I had been later last night, ever since I laid my eyes on her, Playing Cricket on the Screen.

Remember Everyone?

I mentioned – I was going to watch the Highlights/telecast of the Women’s Game from the previous night?

So I obviously did – and I think that its only Fair enough that I admit this out straight, that I was Captivated/Stunned/Mesmerised – wayyyyy….beyond my imaginations, the minute I saw her on Screen, playing - all dawned in the Cricketing Avatar in the Similar Blue Jersey’s as Ours.

(On that note – please note, that I really enjoyed to see the entire women’s team play the way they did, and I thought everyone did a brilliant job in the field for sure, to clinch the ODI series)

But because I have been bitten by the ‘Smitten’ Bug – I am going to focus on Just thinking About Khushi and her game for a While.

So.

Yes.

I thought to myself – the minute I spotted her on Screen last night – Dudeeee…Did I just get More Smitten than I already Was??And the Answer I got back into My Head, almost immediately was – Yes ASR.You Just Got more Smitten than you already Were!

And obviously the Smitten Meter kept ramping up on its own accord – as I went along watching her Play.

And well.

Now.

I am obviously having a lot of trouble of Taking out the Images off Her Playing too, Out of my head For Real.

Yup. For Real.

Two Reasons.

One – being the fact that I was obviously Mesmerised by her in a way I cannot explain, even before I saw her Play.

Second – being the fact that I truly am very impressed by her Game. She’s good. In fact really very good in her game. She’s surely got a lot of talent and potential, indeed. Her game technique is good, and the way she played through the entire innings reading the pitch and the situation was really commendable. She took some massive aggressive shots in between every now and then in order to keep the momentum going, and then switched too playing defensive against the tricky bowlers, and she also timed the field perfectly along side partners in for singles, and doubles. Overall – in my cricketing eye, it was a very good innings indeed. She was aggressive yet very balanced in her shots – while batting.

The images off her Batting, have found their way into the Pinboard at the back of my Head. The most prominent images being– both the images off her firing up two Amazing front foot - Pull Shot(where in she timed the shot ball delivery perfectly) for a Killer Sixer into the Stands.(She freaking fired up two massive pull shots , reading the shot ball perfectly into two complete different directions out of the stand on both occasions.).Then there are two more images off her dancing around in my head in which she freaking pulled off a Hit Switch – Sixer(in which the batter switches in stance right before hitting the ball) and a Lap Shot Sixer(which is like a sixer shot straight behind the wicketkeeper to backward covers) - and all of those four of which are really difficult shots to pull off ,and the fact that she pulled all off those four Sixers into the air with such ease and comfort – and played the innings with a blend of aggressive and balanced shots , truly gave me the answer as to why Mira/Harpreet back her to open for India along side Sheena in both the formats ODI and T20.

And just by Witnessing those Four Sixes fired off her Bat - I also agree with them on the Nickname they’v chosen for her.

The Little Hit Girl.

It Suits her Perfectly.

She’s got a petite frame (which could be why they might call her Little, added up with the fact that she is the youngest in the squad, and Hit Girl – definitely because she powers her Sixes, along with right timing and hand eye coordination perfectly, hitting the ball sweetly and gracefully straight into the Air). And yes, one look at those shots and you know that she’s got some massive athletic strength working up inside of her for Real. I am very sure that she trains very hard to build up on that strength and power on the Core and Shoulder to be able to Hit her Powered Sixes like that. And well to be honest , her wrist work and technique with drives is great too – she did also smash a beautiful straight drive into the boundaries for a Four.

Well.

Should I be More Transparent to you All?

So its like ,I truly am unable to take out the flashes off Images off all three off Cricketing Avatars on the field - out of my head. Not just the Batter Avatar.(All Three - as in batting , fielding, and Bowling. She freaking bowled an amazing bouncer in the game too in the first innings as England was batting first, which led the batter on the other side of the pitch to mistime her Sweep Shot, which then lead to a catch out at Long Off, getting us the Wicket in a crucial point in the game. And she’s also very quick with her reflexes on field.)

So In my gaming opinion, I truly think that she was the right choice for Player of the Match award – Indeed.

And now – after witnessing her Game and amazing potential, I think it only fair for me to admit that I can sense myself feeling a lot more Drawn to her, than I already Was!

The image of her Happy Exhilirated Grinning Face, as she celebrated her 50 runs mid pitch , and then the victory off the Game after – flashes through My Head – followed by the Vision of her Eyes Twinkling in Happiness as she received the Player of the Match award.

Jeeeezzzzz!

I think I am - Bewitched /Bedazzled, for Real.

And now, once again - I find myself in the middle of a thought, contemplating whether I should follow up with my gut and just message her on WhatsApp right now.(I have been thinking over the same in the back off my head ever since I woke Up, actually).

Ok.

RAIZADA.

Don’t think Much.

Just text her if you Want too.

And everyone - I really Want too. Iv been wondering what she is upto?

So, let’s just follow the gut intuition coming through and do this.

I open my WhatsApp and open up my Chat Window with her.

Lucky me – she is Online.

I text her quickly.

Me : Hello Khushi, Good afternoon to You. How’s the training going?.

My phone beeps back instantly.

Her : Good afternoon to you too Skipper Blue. Trainings going good, in fact we just finished with a very intense training session - ten minutes ago.

I quickly reply : great Khushi…so break time now??? And Do you have any net practice lined up for the day as well??

Her : break time…yes Skipper Blue. But Just a little. I mean we are all taking a break for a bit to just relax and then we are going to head for a early lunch in a shortwhile. And yes… post lunch we are heading for practice time into the Nets.Its going to be very long session today.

I do want to tell her how good she was in the Game I saw.

I reply immediately : all the best to you for the practice in the nets Khushi. And oh yes, please know that I completely agree with the nickname’s everyone’s given you – the Little Hit Girl. Those two pull shots, the lap shot and the switch hit were freaking timed perfectly and you made it all look so smooth and easy, and well I obviously know how difficult they are to full off successfully. So Kudos to both You and Your Bat. You really played a beautiful innings indeed Khushi. Truly deserving of the Player of the Match award, in my opinion as well. I know exactly why Mira/Harpreet want you to open alongside Sheena.You’v got great potential Khushi.Many congratulations to you once again.

I get a reply within seconds.

Her : waiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiitttttttttttttttttttttttt????????whattttttt??does that mean that you saw the Highlights of our Innings from the other Night Skipper Blue????

I chuckle to myself.

An image off her Adorable Surprised Face and Widened Eyes – flashes through my Head.Yup – I guess, that’s the expression she’s got on her face right now.

Me : Yup…I did see the highlights off both the Innings from the Match, Khushi. You also bowled an amazing tricky bouncer totally misleading the batter to smash the ball exactly into the fielder’s hands at long off. Brilliant execution of a strategy adapting to pitch conditions. Good job.

My phone beeps instantly.

Her : ohhh myyy cricketing Gods… I can’t believe this Skipper Blue. I mean…you saw the Matchhhhh for reall?????????

I chuckle to myself again.

Me : yes Khushi. I did see it for Real. An excellent game of cricket indeed by all of you. Good Job. I dropped a text to Mira, congratulating her on the ODI series win earlier this morning too.

Its True guys – I messaged Mira the same, before I started on my Gym Time.

Her : Wow!which is so very great Skipper Blue. And I am kind off frozen in shock again at hearing You – tell me that those Sixes shots off my bat were good ones, Skipper Blue.

I grin.

I anticipated that too.

Me : really?? For real?? Are you in a frozen daze , with just your eyes blinking, again?

Her : yes, I am – Skipper Blue. I think you know I am.

What a Freaking Pity that I am missing out on the Sight.

A FREAKING PITY INDEED.

I quickly text back : well, I think I can admit honestly that I kind off anticipated your reaction. And also on that note – your wrist work with the straight drive is good as well, the techniques on point right.

My phone beeps after two minutes.

Her : thank you so much Skipper Blue. Please note – I am not a Frozen Dazed Statue right now, I think I have been transferred into a Rock – in Daze, indeed. Because never had I ever expected to hear you tell me that my wrist work and technique with the Drive is on point .Now please don’t you ask me Why.

I grin to myself as I ask : Whyyy?? I dare you for the love you have for the 22 yards.Tell me why?.

I wait in anticipation for her reply.

My phone beeps after two long minutes.

Her : duhhhh Skipper Blue – I think you already know Why.You just like to take my case – I guess. But I have to answer since you dared me for the love off 22 Yards. Well…I asked you not to ask me why, because the Straight drive and the Cover drive are like Your Signature Shots. It’s like you are the King of these two Shots no Skipper Blue, and I have observed you playing these shots on TV so so much, and I literally have been practising the observation out in the nets for ages now. I still have to get around to playing a Cover Drive with on point technique. You play the drives so amazingly Skipper Blue…I think they are right when the call you the King of Cover/Straight Drives for real.

I smile to myself as I read that.

I quickly reply : thank you so much Khushi. I most surely would like to help you on that. Your straight drive is anyway on point…I will let you on in on a little technique with a wrist that I use – while playing a Cover Drive, you can practice it in the nets then on and see if it works for You.

My phone beeps.

Her : waiiitttt?? Whattt?? Skipper Blue – are you for real? Will you really help me in on that???thank you so so so so so so so so very much in advanceeeeeee incase you are going to reply that you will help me on this for Real.

I chuckle as I read that.

I reply : You are Welcome Khushi.i will surely tell you all about it tonight.

Her : Skipper Blue, I am going to carry on my Notebook with me, for sure.I like to call it - My Blue Book of Cricketing Observations . I hope you wouldn’t mind me taking down Notes of the Technique you mention?? I mean would that be ok???

Did she just tell me that she calls her Notebook – My Blue Book of Cricketing Observations?

How can I not be Amused and Captivated?

I bite back my grin as I reply .Me : you call your notebook the Blue Book of Cricketing Observations?

Her : yes..i do.Wait..Skipper Blue, are you laughing at me right now?? I think you are most definitely biting back on your grin…if not laughing for sure.

How did she guess that?

Me : just how did you even guess that Khushi??

Her : because that’s what you do, when you are pulling my leg and yet trying to be all gentlemanly about it…Skipper Blue.

I chuckle and right when I am writing back a reply to her, my phone beeps.

Her : I want to ask you something Skipper Blue? Can i?

Me : yes khushi tell me??

Her : you haven’t told anyone you met me last night na?? like pakka se…you haven’t right????

Ok my smile kind off shortens on its own accord as I read that , confusion returning to build back in my head.

I take a deep breathe as I reply nonetheless.

Me : yes, I haven’t Khushi, like I told you, I wouldn’t tell anyone.

Her : greattttt Skipper Blue! Thank you. I haven’t told anyone too…not even Jess for real.Thank you so much.

Why is she so Happy – that I haven’t told anyone for Real?

I am freaking even more Bummed to read that she really hasn’t spoken about our encounter to Jess even.

My phone beeps again, as I am on that thought.

Her : I will explain everything Skipper Blue..as to why I asked this off you…later when we meet.Pakka se.

Ok so the minute I read her Pakka se, the smile returns to my face on its own accord.

Me : reallyyyyy??? Pakka se Khushi????

Her : yessss Skipper Blue. Pakka * Infinity Se. ok ? I gotta go now. Everyone’s getting together for early lunch and then off we go for practice.bbyyeeeeee.

I smile as I read that.

I reply : all the best for practice Khushi . I will see you later.

Her : thank you Skipper Blue…

I reread her text before the last one.Did she really write – Pakka*Infinity Se? I mean…It’s the first time I have ever read something like that.

She’s way too Amusing. This One.

But Well ,because I am so puzzled and confused over as to why she want this to be a Secret – I feel my head wanting to know her reason behind the same already.

How many hours to 945PM?

Quite a bit Still.

I am right on that thought when there’s a knock on my door.

I walk upto open my door.

Its Akash of course.

He grins and walks in – “ so bhai, they should be here soon, and we catch up here for a bit, and then Anjali’s got some plans for us all to some countryside restaurant for lunch which is just a twenty minute drive from here, she says its not going to be very crowded, since it’s the beginning of the week, so we will have the privacy too…”

I grin back at him as I walk back into my room closing the door – “ well thatll be good, I have seen the city center so very enough, going into the countryside will be good….”

Akash winks at me as he plonks of the sofa – “ bhai I think I know why Anjali planned this, because she knows you love the fresh air and the works, she thinks the setting will put you in a good mood, and you will be easy on Rahul for real…”

Ha! I think Akash is right.My sister does know me way to well. Well, it’s truly Rahul’s luck that I really am in a good mood anyway.

I chuckle on reflex as I sit in front off him and I wink at him– “ well I am in a good mood Akash…anyway…”

Akash grins – “ I can see that you are bhai…you’v always really liked it here in Nottingham haven’t you?? its got a special place in your heart…cricket wise…I know…”

I nod back at him – Happily.

Hmmm.

Special Place in my Heart – Cricket Wise Indeed.

And I have something in my gut telling me that this time when I leave here – I am going to look back at Nottingham fondly, indeed as I always do, there’s nothing new about that.

But perhaps ‘What’s New’ - would be the fact that it wouldn’t be because off Just Cricket anymore.

…………………………

SIX HOURS 30 MINUTES LATER

BACK AT HILTON – ARNAV’S SUITE

7: 30 PM

ARNAV’S POV CONTINUES

OK.

Hello to You All – Again.

So, I am very delighted to report the fact that apparently, I was just getting all worked up and worried like a over protective Brother – for no reason.

And I realised the above said fact because?

Because – my mind has observed, processed and acknowledged a Fact for Real. What Fact?

Fact that - Rahul Gupta(the man my sister is in love with), is Insanely and Deeply in Love with her Too. Its in his eyes. They shine with so much emotion as he looks at Her, for Real. I obviously have been observing him all day too – for the last six hours 30 minutes.

I chuckle to myself as I recall – how Rahul had gone into a Fan Zoned Mode around me for real feeling all nervous for the first fifteen minutes – as Anjali and him had first stepped into my Room.But well, the way Anjali and him were holding hands through out anyway, kind off comforted his nerves as Anjali took care of the general introductions and small talk amongst us all for the first couple of minutes – after which Rahul started to ease down a little, and he relaxed as well. Akash was his usual kool and friendly self as well , and I obviously assured him then that this was not ASR the Indian Skipper sitting in front of him, it was Arnav- the brother too. And well – soon, the atmosphere was all comfortable in between of us all, as we got on with the general small talks mostly until we left for lunch. And it was after lunch, that I had a little one on one with him , as we took a little stroll in the gardens off the country side restaurant where in he assured me that his intentions and love for Anjali were true for real, and that he was going to be talking to his parents very soon too. Well to be honest by then, I didn’t need to hear him mouth his assurance, why? Because like I said, I had been observing him from the very minute he had stepped in, and I could easily sense that he was head over heels in love with Anjali too. It wasn’t just in his reassuring words - it was his eyes, his silent loving gestures towards Anjali all throughout that obviously didn’t get missed by both Akash or my eye.And well after lunch, he kind off was more relaxed in the whole situation as well, and started to open up more around us. Infact we all chilled out in the Countryside place until about 630, since we had the Privacy and it was a awesome place too.And once Rahul was all relaxed anyway – he also was very warm and exhilarated in telling me about How Cricket is not just a Game in his Home too. Or How his Father was such a big fan off Cricket as well.His mother’s used to be an international swimming athlete as well back in her days, and watches Cricket quite keenly too. He also mentioned that he has a little sister as well, but didn’t talk much about her at all, not even letting us on her name etc – because he said – she will be coming to meet us this evening, so I will introduce her to you all then.( Akash and me both reckon his sister is probably studying in a under graduation course here in Nottingham itself, and we obviously know that Anjali’s probably met her a couple of times already).

Well.

Anyways.

Coming back to Rahul.

He is a good man. (Both Akash and me are obviously aware of his educational details, basic family details etc. Anjali had filled us all in yesterday itself.) So basically on the whole picture looks good – I mean Anjali’s happiness obviously is Priority.So now if Anjali’s and Rahul’s happiness is with each other – then Akash and me are thinking, once we observe on the two of them a little bit more as to how they are around each other, until we leave – we will think about giving Mom a little brief on this first, the minute we are back, and then the three of us can take it up to Dad, together. Because well, my father is way too possesive about Anjali for Real. I mean I know just the Idea of her probably meeting The One she wants to settle with – is going to make him Overwhelmed. He will be happy in his heart I know, but before that he’s going to go into a spiral off a Little Denial off – is my daughter’s in love for Real? Is it time to send her Off? Is it time already to see her Married??

We all know him way too Well.

Hmmm…but I think it should all be Smooth.

I look at my watch as I step out the washroom now.

Its 730 PM.

So obviously everyone, ever since my worries are all eased around my Head about Rahul, I have to admit that I have found myself looking at the time on my hand quite often. Waiting for it to tick around to 930 PM perhaps? Which is when,I get on with my walk to the Trent Bridge to meet Khushi.

So , she hasn’t messaged or texted me all day after our little chat this morning.

Should I message to ask if her practice session went good?

I am sure, she must be exhausted and catching up on some rest maybe.

Long net sessions – are obviously gruelling, I am aware.

I am on that thought as I reach, Rahul, Anjali and Akash all huddled around the sofa , casually and happily chatting up and the minute they say me taking my seat back , Rahul grins as he states , sounding a lot more relaxed – “ so ASR, I was just telling Akash, that I was feeling all fretty and scared about meeting you for no reason, because Iv been thanking my stars that you didn’t turn out to be as scary a brother , Anjali projected to me…”,and with that he laces his hand around Anjali’s shoulder lovingly and Anjali chuckles as she gazes at him lovingly – “ Rahul, I was honest about it all, you are just lucky that Bhai happened to be in a very very good mood today…he’s been way to easy on you..ya…”,and she looks at me mischeviously as she states – “ bhai..cmon ya…be a little more interrogating on him atleast…”

Rahul kisses Anjali’s forhead lovingly as he states rolling his eyes – “ yeah right…as if I don’t know that you asked him to be a little easy on me, a zillion time already…stop trying to take my case on Anjali..”,and he shoots me a sincere look – “ thank you ASR for being supportive…”.Anjali happily snuggles into his side.

Ok.

The Sight Does warm my Heart.

Akash narrows his eyes at Rahul as he states with a mischevious – “ ohh…so just because I am the kool brother, only bhai gets all the thanks for being supportive Rahul??”

Rahul looks at Akash and he states sincerely – “ ofcourse not Akash..a huge thanks to you too…infact to both of you…I am very much at ease now…”

Akash and me shoot him a sincere smile back too and now Rahul looks at Anjali as he states – “ so Anj, looks like the last bit off the moment that we are nearing towards that I saved for being a potential ice breaker, isn’t really going to be needed now…as in because there’s no ice in the air at all…”

Anjali chuckles as she looks at Rahul and states happily – “ and I was thinking just the same…but now that we’v held on to It, lets just wait it out no???”

Rahul nods happily and he whispers something into Anjali’s ears.

Akash and me look puzzled and confused and we are exchanging looks as to – do you know what they are talking/hinting about???.Apparently none of us do.

And while we are still on that thought, Rahul’s phone rings and he gets up and gestures us that he’s gotta take the call and he speaks into the phone – “ yes…junior ?you’v reached??ok, you are making your way to the room now?yup..its the same room no I texted you..great..see you in a couple of minute then…”.He hangs up and looks at us happily – “ so…ASR..akash..that was my junior…as in my sister…she’s here…”

Akash – “ I figured that out Rahul, the minute you said Junior into the phone…do you both have a lot of age difference??”

Rahul – “ we are a little over Five years apart Akash..”

My phone Vibrates in my Tracks – right then.

Akash – “ ok so she is doing her undergrad then? Is she studying at the uni here too..i mean its our guess..”

Rahul – “ yes she is completing her undergrad surely…but no she doesn’t study in our university..”

My insides grin as I spot a Whtsapp notification. Its from Khushi.

Akash – “ really?? Then any university around? I mean how is she in Nottingham then??”

Anjali – “ oh wait ya Akash…listen shes coming no, you meet her then we will tell you…”

I smile at everyone as they continue to chatter and I dip my head into the phone as I open the chat window.

Her : Skipper Blue…

Ok whats Up with saying Just That?

I text back : hello Khushi… you know what I was just thinking about texting you and you messaged.How was practice?

Her : Really Skipper Blue?????

Me : yes really.So cmon then..tell me how was practice?tired much?

Her : ummm…yes Skipper Blue practice was really good…no not tired much..but I just want to say something can i?its kind off important.

Me : yes please..tell me Khushi

Her : Ok so Skipper Blue…please know that I am very sorry about this as in I could not tell you about this earlier because it was not for me to say…ok?that’s the main reason.And yes this is also a part reason as to why I was so scared about offending you in any way yesterday at first, I had a fear eating up my insides at first then the minute I registered in the fact that Mr Stranger was You, that what if I had offended you in any way unknowingly and that it would have a negative repercussion towards this. I anyway only got to know about this yesterday afternoon over lunch.I will explain more later.just…please just remember to pretend as if you never met me at all ok??

Ok. Now I am confused and Puzzled again.What does she Mean by all of what she just texted me?? I just am unable to Connect the dots to the context.What does she mean??????Why is she sorry?? What is – this another reason– that she is talking about????and again the pretend Thing?

Me : huh?? Khushi?? I am sorry I don’t get you.that message from you kind off flew like one of your Pull shots over my head.What do you mean??

I tap send.

I am waiting for a reply but none comes.

Me : ?????????

Right then there’s a knock on the door and we watch Rahul and Anjali both spring up to their feet and Rahul states – “ that will be my sister…”,and we watch Anjali walk beside Rahul all happily too,as they rush to the door.

Ok.

Why isn’t Khushi replying to my text?

Ideally, I just have a couple of seconds to be on phone right now, because it will be too rude if I don’t be actively involved alongside Akash, in greeting Rahul’s little sister politely. I mean given the circumstances, she is the sister of the man, my sister loves.

I most definitely have to be polite and courteous.

I hear Happy greeting voices of Rahul and Anjali coming from near the door.

I wait for Khushi’s message for another ten seconds, but as none comes, I put my phone back in my pocket and Akash and me both are getting up from where we were sitting and right then we hear Rahul’s exhilarated voice – “ Junior…apparently no ice breaking conversation is needed for real, turned out Anjali has no scary intimidating brother at all…both ASR and Akash are so very kool, infact I haven’t even told him how big a fan you are too off his game…I should have..but then I just thought iv held onto it all day, might as well just hold onto that info until you come in…cmon lets go in…”

Anjali’s excited voice falls in my ears – “ and I am so glad you are here…we missed you all day and over lunch, would have been amazing if you could have made it ya…but its ok…I understand..cmon then….lets go in..”

Akash looks at me amused as he states, – “ ok bhai…his sister also watches cricket I guess…full family is a fan of your game then…”

I shoot Akash a puzzled amused look as we both stand leaning against the sofa now, waiting for Rahul, Anjali and his Junior sister to come in, and I do take out my phone out off my pocket for a second to check if Khushi had messaged and while my head is still dipped down into my phone, I hear Rahul’s exhilarated voice fall into my ears – “ well..no Akash..ASR…well our full family isn’t just a crazy fan off ASR’s game, but just Cricket on the whole…and my little Junior, she just doesn’t only watch Cricket…she plays it too…officially for India Women…my little Junior is a professional cricketer too..…she’s here in Nottingham , because the India Women are on tour off England right….what can I say???? I am a very proud brother indeed……”

OK. THAT RINGS A BELL IN MY EAR INSTANTLY.

HIS SISTER PLAYS FOR INDIA WOMEN TOO?

Then she obviously will know KHUSHI.

I look up instantly from my phone now, and the minute I register in the Sight in front off me – I feel like I have been Hit BY Freaking Coincidental ThunderBolt – indeed.

Why? You may ask?

BECAUSE – NEVER HAVE I EVER – COME ACROSS A COINCIDNECE AS FREAKISHLY INTER-TWINED LIKE THIS ONE – INDEED.

WHY?

JUST WHO DO I SEE IN FRONT OFF ME RIGHT NOW????

The Very One , whose Text Reply I had been waiting For.

Guys.

Its Her.

Its Khushi.

No.

I am not imagining this – because my Head’s been Bedazzled or Bewitched or Something.

I mean – its Her.For Real.

I literally am seeing Khushi in front off me.

Like Right in front off me.

She’s Rooted nervously to her spot in between of Rahul and Anjali. She’s dressed in a Red Hoodie Sweatshirt and Denims this time around. Her hair are open to her fall around the sides of her face casually and naturally.The only Difference being from yesterday – that the Hoodie is off her Head,instead of being on It.

OK.

Guys.

As this Sinks In – Its really my Turn to Stand Frozen and Dazed and Shocked to My Spot.

My eyes lock with hers across , and she shoots me a nervous glance again. And now instantly , her last previous message clicks in my Head.

She knew.

She obviously knew about Her brother and My Sister.She mentioned something like how she got to know about this last afternoon? So basically when she met me last night – she obviously Knew.No wonder she also panicked the way she did – at the idea of offending me.She thought if her – “presumed offense” could have a repercussion towards her Brother. This is that one common thing she mentioned she would talk to me about today – I am sure.

Ok.

It all starts to Click in.

I am still frozen to my spot in a Daze when I see Akash walk up to her and shake hands – “ whattt????wowwwwwwwwwww…you play cricket…for India too?????? Really??? No way…that’s freaking awesome…im Akash…hey..cmon in, so very nice to meet you…”

I see Khushi smile at Akash warmly as she shakes his hand – “ thank you Akash..my name is Khushi…yes..and yes…i play for India too…I just got selected into the national squad around six months ago…”.She shoots me a nervous look again.

Ok.

Please Note.

I am in a Daze/Frozen Shock – but not in a Negative Overwhelming Way at all.

But In a very very Good way – Instead.

I MEAN WHAT JUST HAPPENED?

THIS IS FREAKING TRUE FOR REAL.

CINDERELLA (VERSION BAT & HELMET) – who has Captivated my Head from the very first go - like no girl has ever Captivated ever before – Turns out to be the little sister of the man, my sister Loves.

How Twisted a Coincidence is Thattttttt!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

HAHA.

Guys.

How Amusing is this Entire Scenario???????????

So.

RAHUL GUPTA – JUST EARNED SOME MAJOR BROWNIE POINTS – EVERYONE.

WHY?

BECAUSE – HE TURNED OUT TO BE KHUSHI’S BROTHER, OFCOURSE!!!!!!

I MEAN DOES HE EVEN KNOW – HIS SISTER UNKNOWINGLY SERVED AS HIS LUCKY CHARM FOR REAL.(you know like how I have just been in a Good Mood since yesterday night for Real…Haha!!! I mean The Good Mood was also an added reason why I was all kool on him in my Scrutiny Level )

Guys.

You know what this Is?

A SERENDIPITY FREAKING SIXER.

OK.

She asked me to play along and Pretend – as if this is the first time we’v met.

So that’s what I shall do.

I smile politely as I walk up to Khushi now and shake hands with her as I say – “ hello Khushi…so very nice to meet you…so play for India women??congratulations on making it to the National Squad…you said…its been six months?? Im sure it must be a thrilling experience right??”

Khushi smiles at me nervously and politely, as she shakes my hand – “ thank you so much ASR..yes…its just been a little over six months…it’s a thrilling experience indeed…”

Anjali states excited now – “ bhai…I was at the game other night with Rahul when India women won the ODI series…Khushi played a brilliant knock of 80 not out and even got a wicket…and she also got her first ODI player of the match too…she is amazing…you gotta see her fire her Sixes…”

Please note that I am biting back on my laugh with great difficulty.

I think – so is Khushi.

Rahul is beaming happily, as he laces his hand around Khushi’s shoulder proudly – “ so freaking proud off her for Real, ASR…shes had a truly amazing journey from domestic upto this point for real…”

Khushi looks at Rahul all embarrassed as she states – “ bhai…please…don’t embarrass me ya…”

Akash looks at Khushi as he states excited – “ whooooaa…forst ever ODI player of the match…right here at the Trent Bridge cricket stadium?? Bhai got his first player of the match in his test Debut..right here too…what a freaking coincidence this is..isnt it bhai???”

OH YES. AKASH.

THIS IS THE SUPERBOMB OF ALL COINCINDENCES INDEED.

OR LIKE I SAID – A SERENDIPITY FREAKING SIXER.

I bite back my grin as I state – “ oh yes..a freaking coincidence indeed…many congratulations to you Khushi…first ever players of the matches awards are always special..…”

I offer to shake her hand again, and she smiles politely and shakes hands with me again as she states – “ thank you so very much ASR..”.Her eyes are silently thanking me for keeping on with the pretend mode.

I can read that.

Rahul nudges her in the side as he says – “ say what Junior? I am sure you are all zapped and dazed and being congratulated by one of your cricketing inspirations of all time??”

I bite back my grin again with great difficulty.

“yes bhai…ofcourseee…I am all zapped and dazed in the head for real…”.Khushi shoots me another nervous look as our eyes lock briefly by default.

And right then amidst the Comedy of Coincidences Situation around us– her Phone Buzzes.

DAMM.

HER PHONE.

Why is it Buzzing Again.

Khushi immediately takes her hand out of my grip and her phone out of the center pocket of her Hoodie sweatshirt and she states looking into her phone – “ its Mom, bhai…wait…”

She steps aside by turning behind and we all hear her say into the phone – “ hello mom…ahaan?you and dad..wana videocall right now??yes yes..i am with bhai..ummm ok…give me two minutes…will just call you…”

She hangs up and turns to us and looks at Rahul as she states – “ bhai..so mom and dad wana videocall..can we just step out and talk to them for a bit…??”

Rahul grins as he laces his hand around her shoulder – “ ofcourse junior..”and he looks at Anjlai , me and Akash and he states – “ this little one..is the apple of all our eyes…dad’s not going to be able to get any sleep until he sees her everyday……so if you will all just excuse us…we’ll be back in about fifteen minutes..”

I nod.

I am having a lot of trouble not staring at Khushi though.

Anjali looks at Akash, as she opens her hand to him – “ akash, give your room key no…they can talk there…but before that Rahul and khushi tell me what will you both have for dinner ok?We will place the order in the meanwhile?”

Akash grins and hands his room key to Anjali and Rahul just gestures to us that he will be back soon and Khushi just follows him out silently, after giving me and Akash a nervous smile again.

I hear Rahul’s cheerful voice coming from the doorway, before the door closes behind them – “ so…how was practice today junior??????”

And just as the door shuts, Akash looks at me grinning as he gestures us to walk back to our seats and he states – “ wow bhai..this truly is crazy…I mean Rahul’s little sister playing Cricket professionally too, for India Women…have you ever seen her Game??”

I say casually biting back my grin, as I take my seat – “ no I haven’t yet..maybe ill just tune into the highlights tonight…it will make Anjali very happy wont it???”

Akash grins – “ ofcourse….”

Right then theres a knock on our door and Akash says – “ must be Anjali…”.

I see him walk over to open the door and Anjali walks in besides him grinning and Akash says – “ god…Anjali this coincidence is unbelievable. For real…”

Anjali chuckles – “ I know right…can we order Dinner first guys? And then talk this over??”, she looks at me – “ bhai you will have your regular grilled chicken right?

I nod – with a grin.

Anjali to akash – “ ok akash cmon tell me what you want…I already know what Rahul wants and Khushi said she is going to have grilled chicken..so two portions of that one for khushi..one for bhai..”

My siblings are busy in ordering up Dinner Now.

And the Backs off My Head – are Just busy in Processing this Situation indeed.

What did Akash say?

Unbelievable.

Yup Right.

UN-FREAKING-BELEIAVBLE.

INDEED.

But you know what’s Believable?

The Truth.

What Truth?

It’s the Fact, that whether it was Supposed to be an Encounter by Chance or by Mandate( because of the ways our Siblings were in Love) – Life was nudging my Feet towards meeting Khushi, anyway.

And now I find myself thinking as to what I could term this Current Situation AS?

You know like I termed yesterday as a – Fortunate Stroke of Serendipity.So maybe the Scenario that just Happened around me – is like a - Setting off an Inevitable BeDazzle – Perhaps?

Ha!!

Yup.

I am Right.

Indeed.

C’mon Guys - you all tell me if this isn’t, a Setting off an Inevitable BeDazzle, then what Is?????????????

…………………………………

TADAAAAA!!!!!

Let me know what you guys think as always, you all know I love reading your feedback and comments.

Thanks guys for all the Love and Support.

Always.

………………………

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